Political Party
A group of people who come together to contest elections and hold power in the government, agreeing on policies to promote collective good.
Partisan
A person strongly committed to a party, group, or faction, often leading to a biased viewpoint.
Functions of Political Parties
Political parties contest elections, put forward policies, make laws, form governments, act as opposition, shape public opinion, and provide access to government schemes.
Ruling Party
The political party that runs the government.
Multiparty System
A political system where multiple parties exist and can contest elections, often leading to coalition governments.
One-party System
A political system in which only one party is allowed to control and run the government.
Two-party System
A political system where two main parties dominate and alternate in power.
Internal Democracy
The practice within a party to engage its members in decision-making and elections for leadership positions.
Dynastic Succession
The practice where family members of existing party leaders consistently obtain leadership positions.
Defection
Changing party allegiance from the party on which a person was elected to a different party.
Affidavit
A signed document submitted to an officer, where a person makes a sworn statement regarding personal information.
Recognised Political Parties
Political parties which meet certain criteria established by the Election Commission and receive special privileges.
Coalition Government
A government formed by multiple political parties cooperating to gain a majority.
State Party
A political party that is primarily active in one state and complies with the Election Commission's guidelines for recognition.
Election Commission of India
The body responsible for regulating election processes in India, including the registration and recognition of political parties.
Policy Formulation
The process of developing public policies that political parties advocate for, which should ideally reflect varying societal opinions.
Challenges to Political Parties
Issues including lack of internal democracy, dynastic succession, influence of money and muscle power, and a lack of meaningful choice for voters.
Reforms for Political Parties
Suggested changes such as internal elections, gender quotas, and state funding to enhance party effectiveness and democracy.
What is a National Party?
A political party that operates across multiple states in a country and seeks to represent national interests.
Criteria for a National Party in India
To be recognized as a national party, a party must obtain at least 6% of the vote in Lok Sabha elections in at least four states or win four seats in the Lok Sabha.
Examples of National Parties in India
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Indian National Congress (INC), and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) are examples of national parties.
Role of National Parties
They play a crucial role in shaping national policies, forming governments, and contesting in both state and national elections.
National Party vs. State Party
Unlike state parties, which operate primarily within a single state, national parties aim to influence governance at the national level.
Membership in National Parties
National parties typically have a larger membership base spread across different states compared to state parties.
Funding of National Parties
National parties may receive state funding, private donations, and have access to significant resources for campaigning.
Voter Base of National Parties
They often cater to a diverse voter base, addressing various regional and national issues.
Impact of National Parties on State Politics
National parties can influence local politics by promoting candidates or aligning with state parties.
Challenges Faced by National Parties
National parties face challenges such as regionalism, internal disputes, and competition from regional and local parties.
Bharatiya Janata Party is often abbreviated as _____
BJP.
The BJP was founded in _____ year.
The ideology primarily associated with BJP is _____ nationalism.
Hindu.
The BJP's symbol is a _____ flower.
lotus.
The current Prime Minister of India, who is a member of the BJP, is _____
Narendra Modi.
The Bahujan Samaj Party was founded in _____ year.
The founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party is _____.
Kanshi Ram.
The symbol of the Bahujan Samaj Party is a _____.
elephant.
The Bahujan Samaj Party primarily represents the interests of the _____ community.
Dalits.
The ideology of the Bahujan Samaj Party is based on ______ inclusion and social justice.
social.
The party aims to uplift the _____ and economically weaker sections of society.
marginalized.
In the 2007 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, the Bahujan Samaj Party won a _____ majority.
landslide.
What is the Indian National Congress (INC)?
The INC is one of the major political parties in India, known for its role in the Indian independence movement and governance.
When was the Indian National Congress founded?
The Indian National Congress was founded in 1885.
Who was the first president of the Indian National Congress?
The first president of the INC was Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee.
What ideology is primarily associated with the Indian National Congress?
The Indian National Congress primarily advocates for secularism, social justice, and economic equality.
Who is the most prominent leader of the Indian National Congress associated with the independence movement?
Mahatma Gandhi is the most prominent leader associated with the INC during the independence movement.
What significant role did the Indian National Congress play post-independence?
Post-independence, the INC played a vital role in forming the government and establishing policies for the newly independent nation.
What is a major challenge faced by the Indian National Congress in recent years?
In recent years, the INC has faced challenges such as declining electoral support and competition from regional and alternative political parties.
What is a State Party?
A political party that operates primarily within a single state, focusing on local interests.
Characteristics of State Parties
State parties often address regional issues, have a smaller membership, and focus on localized governance.
Role of State Parties in Elections
They contest elections at the state level and influence state policies and governance.
State Party Registration
State parties must register with the Election Commission to participate in state elections.
State Parties vs. National Parties
State parties operate only within one state, while national parties operate across multiple states.
Examples of State Parties in India
Examples include the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS).
Challenges Faced by State Parties
State parties often face challenges such as funding, internal conflicts, and competition from national parties.
Impact of State Parties on Local Politics
State parties can significantly shape local policies and governance based on regional needs.
Coalition Formation by State Parties
State parties may form coalitions with other parties to achieve a majority in the state assembly.
State Parties and Regional Identity
State parties often promote regional identity and local issues, reflecting the interests of their constituents.